Bandolero Picaros, unveils its rich history dating back to the 18th century when the Spanish Crown’s cigar production ban spurred the creation of the renowned “puro” cigar. This Ecuadorian-wrapped cigar, with an undisclosed binder and a blend of Peruvian Ligero and secret filler tobacco, exemplifies Bandolero’s commitment to authenticity and affordability compared to its sister brands Atabey, Byron, and Alfonso.
In terms of appearance, the Bandolero Picaros is a visual delight – a dark brown hue with an oily sheen, tight seams, and minimal veins, showcasing a well-packed filler tobacco. The size is 5.5×54.
The journey through the first third ignites the palate with a robust start, featuring cedar and cinnamon, complemented by a delightful vanilla and molasses sweetness, all with a subtle hint of black pepper.
As the journey progresses into the second third, the flavor profile maintains its strength, introducing notes of graham cracker, leather, espresso, and a touch of cherry.
The final third unveils a crescendo of flavors, with coffee taking the lead, accompanied by an elevated graham cracker and molasses sweetness. While the presence of pepper persists, the sweet flavors rise, culminating in a smooth and flavorful finish.
The overall impression is of an exceptionally well-constructed cigar, showcasing high-quality tobacco leaves throughout. Beyond it’s enticing appearance, the Bandolero Picaros delivers a rewarding smoking experience with an even burn. One aficionado likened it to smoking a dessert after a savory steak dinner, highlighting its great flavors.
The overall score of 91.28 out of 100 attests to the Bandolero Picaros’ excellence, while its strength score of 5.85 out of 10 reflects a balanced and enjoyable smoking experience. This cigar is a testament to the brand’s dedication to producing cigars that captivate the senses and honor the legacy of the Bandolero.
Overall Score: 91.28 out of 100
Overall Strength: 5.85 out of 10
This blind cigar review (Cigar #6-B) was scored by a panel of cigar enthusiasts, including: Sean O, Reverend Eldon, Jeffery Knipe, Bill Forlano, Jeff Endrizzi, Daniel, Nicholas Garlock, Ruby Cannoli, and Chief16.
